Social Development

Social Development is part of the Community Development Department and offers consultative, administrative, and funding support to volunteer groups and agencies who endeavor to meet the social needs in the community.

Preventive Social Services ActIn July 1996, The Preventive Social Services Act was passed by the Government of Alberta. The Act included 80/20 cost sharing between the Government of Alberta and municipalities or Metis Settlements of projects identified by the community. These projects must have an emphasis on non-profit social service programs and volunteerism. FCSS funding allocation is based on the population of each participating municipality, with an adjustment based on the median income level of each community.

FCSS FundingThe City of Medicine Hat has been involved with FCSS funding since the late 1970's. The City of Medicine Hat manages the FCSS funding and collaborates with agencies and the community to better understand social issues/needs and how best to respond to them.

FCSS Video Update
“The FCSS Story” video, premiered at the 2015 FCSSAA Power of Prevention Conference, will be tailored to promote individual FCSS programs. What that means is, at the end of the video your program name and phone number will be displayed. But this will take some time to complete! So, while the work is being done to finalize this project, we would like to share the link below to “The FCSS Story” video with you. This will enable you to tell the FCSS Story locally and promote the work of your FCSS program. You can also find the video on the FCSSAA website. Happy sharing!

Affordable HousingThe Social Development department works in conjunction with the Medicine Hat Community Housing Society (MHCHS) to provide Affordable Housing in Medicine Hat. Through a partnership with and funding from Alberta Urban and Municipal Affairs, the City is involved in the creation of additional affordable housing units that will be managed and maintained by the Medicine Hat Community Housing Society. The City is represented on the MHCHS Board of Directors by one alderman and one staff person.

Moving From Charity to Investment - Reducing the Cost of Poverty in Medicine HatPlease read the research report.